Setting Up a Local Area Network 103
Windows 7 and Windows Vista
1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2. Click Start , type network in the search box, and then click Network
and Sharing Center→ Set up a new connection or network→
Connect to the Internet. The Connect to the Internet window
appears.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select,
click Help me choose or contact your ISP.
Setting Up a Local Area Network
The following steps are general guidelines for setting up a LAN.
• Cable or DSL broadband modem with Internet access established.
• Router – A router connects computers and peripherals on the network
to each other, allowing the computers to share Internet access
provided by the broadband modem. A router has multiple ports, each
supporting one computer or one peripheral such as a printer. Install
any software required for your router. Your router may have been
shipped with installation media, which usually contains installation and
troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to
the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.
• Network cables – Use either CAT 5 or CAT 5e cables.
• Network interface card
Setting Up a Wired Internet Connection
• If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line
to the optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall jack
before you set up your Internet connection.
• If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact
your ISP or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.
To set up WLAN:
Windows 8
1. Set up your wired Internet connection. For more information contact
your Internet Service Provider.
2. Swipe from the right edge of the screen (or if you are using a mouse,
pointing to the upper-right corner of the screen), and then click
Search .
3. Click Settings.